Characterization of the interface in a fiber-reinforced polymer composite using a novel single-fiber microcantilever test

The study of fiber to matrix interface properties is crucial in understanding the failure mechanisms of fiber reinforced composite materials. In this paper, a novel in-situ experimental approach, using micro-cantilever tests, was proposed to characterize a carbon-epoxy unidirectional composite system interface. Computational models were implemented to support the experimental campaign and identify the interface properties. The computational model was validated based on the experimental results, and then it was used to investigate the interface debonding behavior under both damage modes I and II. The validated model allows to investigate the effectiveness of the proposed experimental approach in consistently assessing the interface characterization. Overall, the proposed approach provides a valuable tool for the study of fiber-reinforced polymers and contributes to the development of more accurate predictive models for their behavior.